Looking back on my life, I continue to find experiences that in retrospect proved to be turning points for my personal growth and transformation. Recently, I recalled a time in my youth when I learned to value serving the elderly. Respecting my elders has enriched my life in countless ways.
My mother’s older brother Arnold Stier served as a priest in our church. My Uncle Arnold and his family lived a block away from my childhood home. Once a month, on a Sunday afternoon, Priest Stier went to a convalescent home for the elderly. A small number of members of our church were residents in that home. Known as the Holland Home, the management accommodated Priest Stier to serve our members and others at the home with a church service.
I don’t know how old I was when Uncle Arnold asked me to join him when he went to Holland Home to hold a divine service. I suspect that I was between six to eight years old. I remember my uncle picking me up on an early Sunday afternoon and driving the few miles to the home.
When we arrived, I helped carry boxes of hymnals into the large room that had been set up with folding chairs. At the front of the room a table was arranged with a white tablecloth. On the table was a small lectern. My task was to place a hymnal on each of the chairs. Then I went to a water fountain and filled a glass of water to place on the makeshift altar. Priest Stier placed a Communion Chalice on the altar and made other preparation for the service to begin.
With all the preparations complete we waited till it was time to open the doors for the congregants to enter. When I opened the door twelve or more elderly people slowly made their way to their seats. I sat in the back row of seats at the end of the aisle, just like the deacons did at our church services. Priest Stier conducted the sermon to the listening congregation.
After the sermon Priest Stier served Holy Communion to those who chose to participate. I served as an usher, leading these elderly faithful to the altar for Holy Communion. When the service was concluded, I greeted each one with a smile and a handshake.
Once all were greeted, they left to go their respective rooms or the homey lounge. I collected the hymnals and helped gather up our equipment. Priest Stier and I packed the car and went home, filled with the joyful feeling that being a blessing to someone creates deep within the heart and soul.
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Turning Point
I observed how the elderly congregants, despite their frailties, participated with reverence and devotion. Their dedication made a profound impression on me. I realized that day, as a young child, the immense value and significance of service, respect, and compassion for those who had lived long, rich lives.
These experiences at Holland Home instilled in me not only a deep respect for the elderly but also a sense of responsibility to contribute and serve where I could. This lesson of humility and service has stayed with me throughout my life, shaping my interactions with others and guiding my personal and professional endeavors. Looking back, it is clear to see how these formative experiences laid the foundation for my values and the person I have become today.